New York Giants Draft Preview: WR Ladd McConkey

Brandon Olsen checks out the tape of prospective Day 2 receiver Ladd McConkey.

Author:
Brandon Olsen
Publish date:
Apr 13, 2024

In this story:

Ladd McConkey

New York Giants

NFL Draft

Ladd McConkey, WR

Height: 5’ 11 ⅝”
Weight: 186 lbs
Class: RS Junior
School: Georgia

Very few schools had any interest in Ladd McConkey when he was coming out of North Murray high school in Chatsworth, Georgia. As the 1,131st-ranked recruit in the country, the fact that he ended up at Georgia was shocking. McConkey only had two Power Five offers in high school, Vanderbilt and Georgia, where he ultimately committed to Georgia.

Strengths

Deceptive as a route runner - uses route tempo and head fakes to make defenders hesitate

One of the best in the class at finding a soft spot in the zone and sitting down

Runs crisp routes with almost no wasted movement

Puts himself in good position to catch and run

Speed allows him to test defenses and keep them honest as a vertical threat

Has great vision with the ball in his hands - generally knows where other downfield blockers will be and helps them to help him

Double moves are a killer because of his deceptiveness - can make routes look the same then change at the last second

Acceleration is evident at the start of routes vs off coverage and when coming out of breaks

Can be used out wide or in the slot

Puts in visible effort as a blocker

Experience as a punt returner

[View more draft prospect scouting profiles.]

Weaknesses

Has struggled with drops throughout his career (10 drops on 158 targets)

Jam coverage can throw his whole gameplan off

Will need to improve his release package against press

● Physical coverage generally eliminates him from any timing concepts

● Catch radius is further limited by his frame (9th percentile wingspan)

● Has dealt with injuries to his back and ankles

● Doesn’t have the play strength to make a big impact as a blocker

● It’s rare that he makes men miss after the catch

Summary

McConkey is an intriguing prospect that wins with his route-running and ability to identify and attack coverages but has struggled with drops, especially when running downfield, and his frame leaves durability and play strength concerns. As a slot receiver or off-the-line outside receiver, McConkey can find success when given the freedom and trust to run option routes. The floor is high for McConkey as long as he can stay healthy.

GRADE: 6.45